Nepal Earthquake Relief Project

The recent earthquake in Nepal has left a devastating impact on the lives of many Nepali people and their communities. The destruction in Nepal can be seen throughout the country and many families have been left without basic necessities including drinking water, food, clothing and shelter. Here, you will join a dedicated team of humanitarians and help distribute much needed aid and relief materials to Nepali people who have been devastated by the Gorkha earthquake. Through this project, you will have the choice to decide how you can best use your personal talents to lend a helping hand in the areas of medicine, renovation and rebuilding, child care support or through participating in general clean-up activities.

WHAT DOES THE PROJECT DO?

Following the devastation of the Gorkha earthquake in April 2015 many Nepali people have been left without the basic necessities including water, food, shelter and clothing. Access to healthcare has also been drastically reduced, and all of this has come at a time when the people of Nepal need it most.

The amount of destruction in Nepal is tremendous and much of the rubble from fallen buildings and crumbling temples must be removed before any rebuilding can begin. In Kathmandu much of the city and roadways are covered in rubble making access to the city centre very difficult for volunteer groups and agencies that are currently looking to reach the many Nepali people who have found themselves homeless or living in make-shift homes. Much help is needed to remove this debris to allow for a greater mobilization of resources so that relief can reach as many people as possible.

In addition to these much needed clean-up activities, this programme also looks to provide medicines, drinking water and other supplies that have been donated from agencies all over the world to aid the Nepali people and their families. Not only are volunteers like you able to help these devastated communities by providing access to this much needed aid, but you will also be able to provide comfort, support and a sense of safety to children and families around Kathmandu giving them hope for a better future.

WHAT WILL I BE DOING?

On this programme you must be optimistic, kind-hearted and enthusiastic about the work you are doing in order to provide encouragement and support to staff and other volunteers who are working very hard during these difficult times. You will be asked to bring whatever relief materials you can along with you including clothing, first aid and much more. Before arriving on project it will be possible for you to discuss with our partners the types of aid that it may be best for you to bring.

Whilst on project you will work alongside other volunteers on your relief team to clear debris from roadways and important areas to improve access to Nepal’s most vulnerable communities. Your time will also incorporate rebuilding efforts, distributing medicines, and carrying out basic first aid and healthcare services. You will also work to provide a sense of hope and security whilst building temporary make-shift homes for homeless Nepali children and their families. Once in Nepal you can discuss your particular skills and interests with the in-country staff and they will work with you to create a schedule that will use your talents in the most beneficial way possible.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I ARRIVE?

Upon your arrival you'll be met at Kathmandu airport by a friendly Frontier representative and transported to your accommodation in Kathmandu. You will then have time to settle in and become familiar with your accommodation and fellow volunteers and will be feeling inspired in no time.

WHERE WILL I BE STAYING?

During the majority of the project you will stay in a shared volunteer house that is attached to our partner’s main office in Kathmandu. This volunteer house is equipped with all modern amenities including a western style toilet. During the rebuild and reconstruction phase of the project you will be staying in the remote village of Davitar just outside of Kathmandu where living conditions will be very basic and you will be sleeping in tents or temporarily made huts.

WHAT WILL I BE EATING?

You will be provided with 3 meals a day which will consist mostly of local Nepali dishes. The most prevalent Nepali dish is daal, bhaat and tarkaari (lentils, rice and vegetable curry). This is the main course served in most Nepali houses for both lunch and dinner. Nepali food is much less spicy than Indian food, and many dishes are Tibetan in origin. It seems that Indian influence is only confined to south-western part of Nepal. The rest of Nepal has more of Tibetan and Chinese influence in their cuisines.

Two of the most exclusive and authentic Nepali delicacies include momos, a meat or vegetable filled dumpling and Tibetan bread and honey – a puffy fried bread with heavy raw honey. Both of these items are good for a light breakfast but are insufficient for a full meal. The Newars of Nepal are considered to be great connoisseurs, so watch out for Newari restaurants for a special Nepali gastronomic experience!

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

You will have time on the weekends to explore the amazing city of Kathmandu and visit the many spiritual temples and palaces. Perhaps you could visit the many markets and shops or even try some of the local delicacies sold throughout the city. As well as traditional Nepali foods, the city also offers modern bakeries and upmarket restaurants. You may also wish to visit some of the picturesque villages on the outskirts of the city if you fancy a break from the hustle and bustle! Why not take a fun ride on the local bus to go white water rafting. After your project you may wish to spend a couple of weeks trekking in the Himalayas or Annapurna Ranges or wildlife spotting in Chitwan National Park.

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

To apply for this placement, click on "Apply Now" below. Fill in the short application form and one of our advisers will then call you back to answer any questions and make sure this is the perfect placement for you. Applying doesn't cost a penny and you won't pay anything until you're completely happy and you're ready to reserve your place.